While Wenger and most of his squad are on tour in Vietnam Cazorla is not, having been given extra time to rest after his exertions at the Confederations Cup.

Marin was hoping to speak to Dick Law, the Arsenal executive who deals with transfers and who is also not in the Far East with the squad.

Atletico wanted to sign Cazorla last summer from Malaga but could not then match the £16.5m Arsenal paid.

Superstar: Cazorla made a phenomenal impact in his first season at Arsenal, with 12 goals and 16 assists

But having brought in Cazorla's good friend David Villa from Barcelona, the Spanish club are determined to carry on building.

Arsenal would be loath to accept an offer for one of their best players - Cazorla was a revelation, scoring 12 and setting up 16 goals last season.

They are looking at adding to the squad with the signing of Luis Suarez or Gonzalo Higuain, not losing stars as in previous years.

That makes a deal unlikely but Atletico are hopeful money will talk.

Wanted: Luis Suarez is wanted by Arsenal, though the £40million price tag could put them off

Suarez's agent has told suitors to start the bidding at £40m for the Liverpool striker, who is known to be unsettled. Arsenal were willing to offer £35m, which now appears to fall far short of the estimate.

The Gunners will also be alert after Wayne Rooney indicated he is about to submit a written transfer request at Manchester United, though the England striker is thought to favour Chelsea if he decides to leave Old Trafford.

Arsenal are set to play Vietnam in their latest pre-season friendly on Wednesday.

Investing in a Spanish Villa: David Villa (second right) trains with his new Atletico Madrid team-mates